news 26 August 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Museveni Endorses Grassroots Anti-Graft Efforts, Cites Elite 'Blockade'
President Museveni has thrown his support behind the direct engagement approach of Ministers Balaam Barugahara and Justine Nameere in combating corruption, arguing it bypasses systemic blockades. He urged the Director of Public Prosecutions to expedite the prosecution of officials implicated by evidence gathered during these field visits. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/museveni-backs-balaam-nameere-anti-corruption-drives-says-field-visits-bypass-elite-blockade--5572094
President Yoweri Museveni has publicly backed the proactive anti-corruption campaigns led by Minister for Local Government, Balaam Barugahara, and his junior, Justine Nameere. The President defended their method of conducting direct field visits and public gatherings (Barazas) across the country, asserting that this approach is essential for uncovering and addressing corruption effectively.
Addressing concerns that these unannounced tours might be unprepared, President Museveni stated that the pervasive nature and impunity of corruption in Uganda necessitate such direct intervention. He highlighted that the primary hurdle now lies with the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to swiftly process the substantial evidence being collected and bring corrupt individuals to justice.
President Museveni identified two key reasons for the persistence of corruption: complicity and cover-ups by officials tasked with oversight, and the silence of educated elites in positions of influence who fail to report wrongdoing. He explained that Ministers Barugahara and Nameere are effectively circumventing the ‘blockade’ erected by these corrupt elements through their direct engagement with the public.
The President noted that public discontent over issues like the Parish Development Model (PDM) and the illegal sale of local government jobs has previously disrupted his own campaign activities. He also pointed to ongoing investigations into irregularities within government institutions, such as ghost learners, teachers, and health facilities.
While criticizing corrupt officials, President Museveni also commended those, including Transport Minister Fred Byamukama, who have played a role in exposing corruption. He drew a parallel to the early days of the NRM, observing that the strong public turnout at the recent Barazas signifies a public appetite for decisive action against graft.
He reiterated his belief that corruption in Uganda is stoppable and urged all public officers to cease their cover-ups, while encouraging ordinary citizens to continue reporting corrupt practices without fear.